RTX Presents Full Palette of Vibrant Fall Getaways

When the cool autumn air sweeps across the country, so too do the autumn colors, presenting vistas of trees ablaze with scarlet, orange and yellow hues. Let Resort Travel & Xchange (RTX) guide you on a tour of nature’s annual art show. The global timeshare exchange leader offers exceptional fall getaways in colorful destinations like these below.

Rangeley, Me. – A longtime favorite among nature lovers, including Henry David Thoreau, the Maine wilderness provides limitless opportunities for outdoor adventures. One of the region’s fall foliage hotspots, the Rangeley Lakes area, draws visitors with its extraordinary beauty, featuring mountains, rivers, deep woods and wildlife.

Take in the gorgeous vistas along with regional history on a guided cruise on one of the area’s pristine lakes. You’ll enjoy dramatic views of Maine’s Western Mountains along with possible sightings of soaring eagles. Hop aboard a seaplane for an excursion high above the lakes and wilderness teeming with fall color. Or, opt for a seaplane tour into the wilds to view Maine’s elusive moose in their natural environment. Be sure not to miss Height of Land, one of Maine’s most picturesque spots. This overlook serves up sweeping views of massive Mooselookmeguntic Lake and surrounding forests. Another favorite attraction, Bald Mountain, offers a fun-family hike with great views as a bonus, while the exceptionally scenic Angel Falls Trail follows mountain streams to one of Maine’s highest and most spectacular waterfalls.

Rangeley offers plenty of indoor fun too. Whether you’re into logging or not, an adult or child, the carefully crafted Maine Forestry Museum tells the story of Maine’s rich heritage of forestry and conservation. For other indoor action, Moose Alley invites visitors to rock, roll and bowl, with state-of-the-art bowling, billiards, an arcade, music and entertainment.

Banner Elk, N.C. – Located in Western North Carolina, renowned for the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains, Banner Elk is another wonderland of lush forests and majestic peaks. This quaint mountain town is surrounded by some of the highest mountains east of the Rockies. Plus, “America’s Favorite Scenic Drive” – the Blue Ridge Parkway – winds its way through the county, providing stunning vistas awash in fall color.

Banner Elk and neighboring towns boast myriad opportunities to celebrate the changing season with world-class outdoor recreation. Grandfather Mountain is a World Biosphere site with a mile-high swinging bridge and abundant wildlife. Hike your way through the foliage, or go horseback riding on spectacular mountain trails. Tee off on a championship golf course. Fish in one of the many clear mountain streams. Adventure seekers choose whitewater rafting, mountain climbing and kayaking. Adding to Banner Elk’s tremendous allure is a vibrant culinary scene featuring dishes made with seasonal local ingredients prepared by nationally acclaimed chefs who have been spotlighted in Wine Spectator, Bon Appetite, Travel & Leisure and more.

For families, Banner Elk has bountiful charms. The Tweetsie Railroad Wild West Theme Park delights young leaf peepers with scenic rides aboard two vintage steam locomotives as well as live shows, Ferris wheels, thrill rides and more. Not far away are fascinating gem mines to explore. Known for its fun festivals, Banner Elk draws thousands of visitors in October for the family-friendly Wooly Worm Festival, honoring this furry critter, long considered a harbinger of winter weather to come. Also in October, the Apple Orchard Festival in nearby Valle Crucis is a hit for its celebration of the region’s rich mountain culture.